Just as I didn't want him.
"The examination is complex," the doctor said, ushering me toward the door. "Please wait outside."
I knew it was just an excuse.
I stood at the corner of the corridor, hidden by the wall.
Moments later, the door opened. Sebastian emerged. He'd shed the patient gown. He walked with steady, powerful strides toward the elevator—his paralysis miraculously gone.
Downstairs, the familiar black sedan with military plates waited.
I withdrew my gaze. Turned. Walked to the consultation room at the far end.
Inside, the atmosphere was suffocating.
"Miss Simmons, the tumor has compressed the primary nerves," the specialist said. "You've lost the window for surgery."
He sighed, removing his glasses. "If you'd come half a month ago... there might have been hope. Now? Days. Go home. Say your goodbyes."
I sat in silence for a long time before nodding.
"After I pass, cremate me immediately," I whispered. "Send the ashes to Westhill Military Residence. Address them to General Sebastian James."
I left my last cash on the desk and walked out.
My phone lit up. A new message.
Come to the residence. There's something you need to see.
The text was from Stella Delgado.